What is the Mirena IUD?
The Mirena is a levonorgestrel (progestin)-releasing intrauterine system, which is an estrogen-free device that delivers small amounts of hormone directly into the uterus. As a result, the hormone level is almost undetectable in the bloodstream as it is concentrated right in the uterus to help protect against pregnancy. The Mirena provides lower and more balanced hormones than the pill. The Mirena, made of soft flexible plastic, is inserted into the uterus during an office visit. It is good for five years, is 99.9% successful in preventing pregnancy and is easily removed when you wish it to be. The Mirena does not cause significant weight gain and does not impact fertility once it is removed. However, the Mirena does not protect you against HIV or sexually transmitted diseases. IUDs date back to 1968, but the Mirena is far different than the early IUDs. The Mirena IUD has been available in the US since 2001 when the FDA approved it. However, over the past 16 years more than 10 million
